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Kootenay Pass: Highway 3, Selkirk Mountains, British Columbia
Photo: Kiwibirdman · CC BY 3.0

Drives British Columbia The Okanagan, the Kootenays and the BC Interior

Kootenay Pass: Highway 3

CN 3 · Salmo → Creston

Leisurely47 mi50 min4,800 ft climbHigh point ≈ 5,800 ftOne way
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The drive

Highway 3 climbs east from Salmo over Kootenay Pass to Creston. At about 1,774 meters, it is one of the highest highway passes in Canada that stays open year-round. The summit is in Stagleap Provincial Park near Bridal Lake.

The road climbs for a long way, then drops toward the Creston valley. The curves are long and sweeping.

The pass is often closed in bad weather for avalanche control and debris clearing, mostly done remotely.

Along the way

  1. Salmo
  2. Kootenay Pass
  3. Creston
Elevation
4,800 ft of climbing · high point ≈ 5,800 ft
SalmoCreston
Curves
Mostly gentle curves
SalmoCreston
GentleHairpins

Good to know

  • Avalanche control can close the pass for hours in winter; check DriveBC before you go.
  • Winter tires or chains are required on most BC highways from October 1 to April 30.
  • Paving with single-lane alternating traffic was posted near the summit in late October.

Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check DriveBC.

Questions about this drive

How long does Kootenay Pass on Highway 3 take?

Highway 3 from Salmo to Creston is 47 miles and takes about 50 minutes.

Is Kootenay Pass open in winter?

Yes, it is open year-round, but it is often closed temporarily for avalanche control and clearing.

How high is Kootenay Pass?

Kootenay Pass on Highway 3 is 1,774 meters.

What you get in the app

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More drives near here

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Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.

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Map of Kootenay Pass: Highway 3, from Salmo to Creston